The Gospel

As the sailor turns his ship to the sea, the harbor and coastline slip from view. The gentle swell of the water rises and falls peacefully against the sides of his vessel, as the prow cuts through the waves. His heart and mind are on those he left behind and the lands he will see at his destination. His mind is not troubled, his gaze calm, and his hand is steady as he guides his vessel past the breakwater and toward the open seas. He knows his vessel and has confidence that she can weather any storm. His well-trained crew are each faithfully filling their posts of duty. The deck hums ever so gently under his feet, a sign that the engines are doing their job. She is a powerful working machine, and he is confident that she will safely return in many days to his harbor home. Above the mighty vessel flies his insignia, the flag of his home country, a sign to all, of his country and origin. He is not ashamed of his vessel, his flag, or his home country. He believes in his vessel and men.
Likewise, God in his goodness has launched His vessel, His Word, the Truth out into a dark world. He knows the message through and through, He should, He purchased it with the blood of His Son. Not just any son, but His Son, God’s Son. He has a personal interest in it, and no wave, or darkness will hamper the travel of His gospel, the Truth of His Word. It will not return unto Him without it making an impact on humanity. It will not return to Him void but will accomplish what He has set out for it to do. It is a powerful message that if worked in the hearts of men, will work great works of redemption, saving those who get on board from themselves and eternal destruction. Man may scorn and deride it but that does not diminish its effectiveness and power. Neither age, nor time, circumstance or opportunity will ever make it lose its power. It will work the work He intended it to work, in any time and any place, in your heart and mine.

Part 2.